Bidemi Alaran is one of the most celebrated and widely travelled Masters of Ceremonies in the United Kingdom. His clients cut across all boundaries and cadres of society all over the world. He was born on the 18th of March 1964 in Abeokuta, Ogun State, to the family of Deacon Oluwole Alaran and Abike Fatona. Bidemi attended Baptist Academy Obanikoro, Lagos, and the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) where he bagged a second-class upper degree in Film/TV Production.
He worked briefly in Lagos and Kaduna before proceeding to the UK. Whilst in the UK, he worked for the London Underground and TFL where he met his heartthrob, Adekemisola on the platform @ Oxford Circus. Bidemi resigned in 2009 to follow his ambition of filmmaking and became a producer of the movie, “IMALA”. This was done in collaboration with his friend, Demola Adeyinka, and Matrix Entertainment. He played the lead role in the film IMALA with Kehinde Bankole, Faithia Balogun, Ireti Osayemi, Dele Odule, and a host of others
He became the first Nigerian to premiere at the Odeon Greenwich UK in 2010. Bidemi is an actor and dancer. He acted in almost every production during his campus days and he has done a few here too in the UK including Ola Rotimi’s Our Husband Has Gone Mad Again and The Gods Are Not To Blame by the same author.
In celebration of his 60th birthday, Bidemi spoke exclusively with the Publisher of The Podium Magazine, Oloye Demola Akinbola. Enjoy these excerpts …
How do you feel clocking 60?
I give all the glory to God for His mercies endure forever
How has the journey been?
From 1964 until now I don’t know how the years quickly went, but I’m very grateful because many that we were born on the same day don’t have the same testimony.
What has life taught you at 60?
I am humbled by the greatness, kindness, and faithfulness of God even when I have not deserved it. He has been so kind and gracious to me.
What do you consider your milestone achievements so far?
I am one of the most sought-after Masters of Ceremonies in the UK, and I get better every time. For me, it’s a calling and it is second to none. As a movie producer, I was the first Nigerian to premier at the Odeon Greenwich in 2010. God has been good to me and my family.
Would you say you are fulfilled so far?
No by no means. I have not fulfilled half of my potential, and you know what, until one dies I don’t think anyone can. But to be fair I have enjoyed God’s goodness in my 60 years on earth. I outlived COVID bro.
What does success look like to you? How do you define success?
Success to me is not money and property. Though you can’t deny them when they come your way. I see success in being one of the best in your chosen field and being relevant for the season.
Could you share with us some of the challenges you have had to face in life and how did you surmount them?
Challenges are always there, every step of the way but that is why I can’t deny God. I have always done my bit, never giving up and God has always stepped in to do the rest. Challenges, trials, and tribulations are part of growing up, and I’m glad that I’m alive to testify to how God has helped me to triumph over the various challenges that have come my way.
What inspires or motivates you? What kicks you?
I am excited when I see people happy. I have the God-given talent to make people happy by my profession. I always look forward to the next event and the next opportunity to put a smile on someone’s face or event.
What’s your philosophy of life? How do you see life?
I take after my late father. I’m a bit laid back and I don’t stress. I grew up not lacking anything, so I’m not swayed by the wealth of anyone. I am content with what I have. I respect people and I expect the same. So, my life has been guided by that belief that what will be will be and that God reigns in the affairs of men. I am not swayed or worried by circumstances. I focus more on solutions. I can be very pragmatic in my approach to issues and situations.
Which words best describe your personality?
A consummate professional, a team player, and a God-fearing man. I love friends and I respect friendship. I’m disciplined but I am not rigid. I am flexible and I am reasonable. I’m a family man and I respect family values. I am an ardent Arsenal fan and a patriotic Nigerian-British
What are your plans for the near future?
IMALA the movie was my debut in 2010. I’m trusting God for a sequel. I’m a prospective driving instructor and I intend to use my experience as a give back to Nigeria expecting to change the driving culture and reduce deaths on our roads. I want to partner with well-meaning individuals and corporations in any way possible to change the narrative in Nigeria. I would love to have my event centre and a film village to help improve entertainment.
What was growing up like? Please share some of your fond childhood memories with us.
I had a somehow rough growing up but God helped me to overcome it. I went to a few good schools and that helped me to my present status. I thank God for the woman I married and the wonderful children I’m blessed with. I have always known that I would be an entertainer from my early days and thank God for where I am.
I’m privileged to experience two worlds and that has changed my mentality. My dad died one month short of 60 and that was painful but God has compensated me with a long life in good health and a sound mind. The Alaran name and brand are global. I thank God and all my fans and clients.
All the past is history now, the future belongs to God, and the present is mine to make history with. So I’m grateful, and I’m happy for this milestone and pray for many more by God’s grace.
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